Area Plan Commission approves 2027 budget with higher professional fees and a small raise

The Vermillion County Area Plan Commission approved its draft 2027 budget at the May 14 meeting, agreeing to a staff-requested $2,000 raise for a board staff member and an increase in professional services and fees to $15,000.

Penny, planning staff, outlined the proposed changes: a $2,000 compensation increase (her stated request) and a higher allocation for professional services to respond to upcoming workload such as zoning changes and the solar moratorium. Commissioners discussed line-item flexibility and noted that building-permit fees fund the inspector account. A motion to present the budget as drafted was moved and seconded and carried by voice vote.

The APC chair asked members to sign budget paperwork for submission to the auditor; staff said legal-notice publication costs should be covered under professional services if needed.